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Painting Cost Formula:
The Painting Cost Calculator estimates the total expense for painting a house exterior by calculating both material costs (paint) and labor costs based on surface area, paint coverage, and pricing.
The calculator uses the painting cost formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates material cost by determining how many gallons are needed based on coverage rate, then adds the labor cost calculated from the total surface area.
Details: Accurate cost estimation helps homeowners and contractors budget properly for exterior painting projects, ensuring adequate funds are allocated for both materials and labor.
Tips: Measure the total exterior surface area accurately. Check paint can labels for coverage rates. Get current paint prices and local labor rates. All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: How do I measure exterior surface area?
A: Calculate wall areas (height × width) and subtract window/door areas. For complex surfaces, break into rectangles and sum the areas.
Q2: What is a typical paint coverage rate?
A: Most quality exterior paints cover 250-400 square feet per gallon. Check manufacturer specifications for exact coverage.
Q3: How much does exterior painting labor typically cost?
A: Labor costs vary by region but typically range from $1-3 per square foot depending on surface condition and complexity.
Q4: Should I include primer in the calculation?
A: For bare wood or dramatic color changes, factor in primer cost separately using the same calculation method.
Q5: How many coats should I calculate for?
A: Most exterior jobs require 2 coats. Multiply paint quantity by 2, but labor is typically charged per project, not per coat.